What happened
While conducting an approach for runway 2ly, the pilot of N65TD, a Cessna 172, was notified that the outer marker was out of service. Due to this equipment unavailability, the minimum descent altitude (MDA) was increased to 2200 feet. After receiving clearance for the approach, radar monitoring ended and the flight was directed to communicate via advisory frequency. Upon contacting Unicom, the crew received weather information indicating light winds, an 800-foot overcast ceiling, and 5 miles of visibility, with reports of slush and ice on the runway from earlier in the hour.
Following the crew's report that they were inbound for a procedure turn, all radio contact was lost. The aircraft subsequently struck trees while flying over rising terrain at an elevation near 2200 feet. This impact occurred roughly 7 miles prior to reaching the final approach fix (Dalton NDB). The required minimum altitude for this specific area of the approach was 3000 feet. Investigation into the wreckage revealed no mechanical issues with the aircraft components prior to the crash.
Findings
The investigation identified several contributing factors, including poor weather conditions characterized by low ceilings and fog. Radio logs showed that the crew was struggling with a weak signal from the Dalton NDB. While the Chester VORTAC was listed on the approach charts as an alternative identification source for the final approach fix, it was also noted as out of service. A primary factor in the accident was inadequate preflight planning, specifically the pilot's failure to review NOTAMs before departure. Additionally, the crew failed to maintain the required altitude and improperly executed IFR procedures while navigating rising terrain.